England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick has all but confirmed that Ollie Pope will bat at number three in the opening Ashes Test at Perth’s Optus Stadium on November 21. The Surrey batter looks set to retain his position despite mounting pressure from young prospect Jacob Bethell.

Speaking to BBC Sport ahead of England’s only warm-up match against the Lions starting Thursday, Trescothick gave the clearest indication yet about the team’s plans. “I’m presuming the same sort of number three we’ve had for a period of time,” he said, adding that England are “very consistent” in their selection approach.

The 26-year-old Pope has been England’s first-choice number three for an extended period, averaging 41.60 in the position. However, his place came under scrutiny after a mixed home summer where he scored a century in his first innings against India but managed just one fifty in his next eight knocks.

Bethell’s Challenge Falls Short
Jacob Bethell, the exciting 22-year-old left-hander, had been tipped as a potential replacement after impressive performances in white-ball cricket. The youngster scored his maiden international century against South Africa in September, raising hopes of an Ashes call-up.

However, Bethell’s recent tour of New Zealand proved disappointing. Despite five opportunities to stake his claim, he could only manage a highest score of 24, seemingly ending his chances of displacing Pope for the Perth Test.

England’s squad members prepare for the crucial Ashes series
The decision to strip Pope of the vice-captaincy last month, with Harry Brook taking over the role, had fueled speculation about his vulnerability. But director of cricket Rob Key maintained that Pope remained the “man in possession” of the crucial batting position.

England’s Consistent Selection Philosophy
Trescothick emphasised that England’s selection strategy prioritises stability, especially heading into a major series. “Bar the odd injury, we’ve not really chopped and changed a great deal,” he explained. The assistant coach dismissed the notion that performances in the warm-up match would dramatically alter their plans.

It’s definitely not going to change dramatically before the start of an Ashes series because someone puts their hand up by taking five wickets or getting 150

This approach reflects England’s broader philosophy under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes of backing players through rough patches.

The three-day practice match at Lilac Hill will see England field close to their preferred XI for the first Test. Captain Stokes, returning from a shoulder injury, will play his first cricket since July. Any Ashes squad members not selected for the England XI will bolster the Lions side.

With the series opener just 10 days away, England appear settled on their batting order. Pope’s experience and past performances have earned him the management’s trust for what promises to be a crucial role in England’s quest to regain the Ashes after Australia retained them with a 2-2 draw in 2023.